Lions Clubs International Convention—In late
June or early July of each year, 15,000-20,000 Lions club members and their
families from more than 100 countries gather for the Lions Clubs International
Convention. For five days, Lions conduct association business, share fellowship
and enjoy the sights of an international city. The Lions Clubs International
Convention is one of the largest annual conventions of its kind in the
world.

Lions Clubs International—Lions Clubs International is the
world’s largest service club organization, with 1.3 million members in 45,000
clubs in 202 countries and geographic areas. In addition to its efforts toward
conquering blindness, the organization has made a strong commitment to community
service and helping youth throughout the world. To learn more about Lions Clubs
International, visit www.lionsclubs.org.

Headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois, USA, Lions Clubs International staff
members handle arrangements for convention events, housing, outside suppliers
and exhibitors. More than 100 headquarters staff work at the
convention.

Lions Around the World--Lions are men and
women who volunteer their time to humanitarian causes. Lions clubs evaluate
community needs and choose service projects to meet those needs. Lions collect
and recycle used eyeglasses and support eye screenings and cataract surgeries.
They sponsor programs for young people, including youth groups called Leo Clubs,
and provide scholarships and recreational opportunities. Lions also work to
improve the environment, support diabetes education, provide hearing screenings,
assist the aged and build or maintain community parks.

Convention to be Held for the First Time in Thailand—The
Lions Clubs International Board of Directors selects convention sites from
around the world five years in advance following an extensive bidding process.
During the evaluation, tourist authorities present options for accommodating the
convention and the large number of attendees and explain why their cities are
attractive destinations. Local Lions club members demonstrate their commitment
by forming a Lions Host Committee.

Lions Clubs in Thailand—There are approximately 300 clubs
with nearly 8,500 Lions members in Thailand. Kajit “KJ” Habanananda, a Lion from
Bangkok, Thailand, served as president of Lions Clubs International
from1998-99.

Host Committee—Lions volunteers from Thailand have spent
several years preparing for the convention. The group is responsible for
hospitality, including staffing welcome centers, arranging welcoming banners,
securing local marching bands for the parade and serving as sergeants-at-arms
for major events.